Chitral is the northernmost district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, wedged between the towering Hindu Kush range and the borders of Afghanistan and Tajikistan. It is one of the least visited corners of Pakistan and one of the most rewarding. The landscape ranges from high-altitude passes dusted with snow to deep, forested valleys where the Chitral River runs cold and fast. Towering above everything is Tirich Mir (7,708m), the highest peak of the Hindu Kush range, visible on clear days from the town itself.
The highlight of any Chitral trip is the three Kalash Valleys — Bumburet, Rumbur and Birir — where the Kalash people, an ancient non-Muslim minority with distinct culture, language, dress and festivals, have lived for thousands of years. The Kalash are believed to be among the last practitioners of an ancient pre-Islamic religion in the region. Their colourful festivals, carved wooden temples and unique way of life make a visit here genuinely unlike anything else in Pakistan. All tours depart from Lahore.
The world's 9th highest massif rises directly behind Chitral town — one of the most dramatic mountain backdrops in Pakistan.
Meet the Kalash people in Bumburet Valley — their festivals, temples and traditions are entirely unique in Pakistan.
The historic fort of the Mehtar of Chitral, now a museum with fascinating royal history and valley views.
The world's highest polo ground at 3,700m where the famous Shandur Polo Festival is held every July.
The largest and most accessible of the three Kalash Valleys, with guesthouses, grape orchards and the famous Kalash museum.
A beautiful glacial lake above Chitral, reachable by a scenic drive and short hike with Tirich Mir in the background.
We depart Lahore and travel to Peshawar — by road (4 hours) or by a short domestic flight. Peshawar is the gateway to the northwest frontier. An evening in the old city bazaar or Peshawar Museum before an early start tomorrow.
One of Pakistan's most dramatic drives. We head north through Malakand, past the Swat Valley junction and up through Dir before crossing the Lowari Pass (or tunnel) into Chitral District. The landscape transitions from green valleys to high mountain terrain. Arrival in Chitral town by evening.
A day to explore Chitral itself. Morning visit to Chitral Fort and the adjacent Shahi Mosque, followed by the local bazaar where traders sell gemstones, traditional woollen shawls and dried fruits from Afghanistan. Afternoon drive to Golen Gol for views of the glacial valley.
We drive into Bumburet, the largest of the three Kalash Valleys. The road narrows as grapevines and walnut trees close in overhead. We visit the Kalash Museum and cultural centre, walk through the villages and spend time with local families if the timing aligns with a festival. An overnight in a local guesthouse is a highlight of the entire trip.
We explore Rumbur Valley, quieter and less visited than Bumburet, before heading to Birir — the most traditional of the three valleys where outside influence has been slowest to arrive. Return to Chitral town for the final night.
We retrace the route back through Dir and Peshawar, with a possible overnight in Peshawar or Swat depending on your schedule. Return to Lahore by day 7.
Private & fully customised • Departs Lahore
No payment now. We reply within 2 hours.